Pesto Pizza with Mushroom and Bell Pepper
Dive into the delightful world of flavors with our Pesto Pizza with Mushroom and Bell Pepper, a vegetarian masterpiece that combines the earthy tones of mushrooms with the sweet crunch of bell peppers, all brought together by a vibrant basil pesto. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also fills your kitchen with a tantalizing aroma that beckons everyone to gather around the table.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Wheat Pizza Dough | 1 recipe |
| Button Mushrooms | 1 cup, sliced |
| Cheddar Cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
| Red Bell Pepper (Capsicum) | 1, sliced |
| Walnuts | 1/4 cup, toasted |
| Basil Leaves | 250 grams, stems removed |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Salt | to taste |
| Whole Black Peppercorns | 1 tablespoon, coarsely pounded |
| Extra Virgin Olive Oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Parmesan Cheese | 1/2 cup, grated |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 5 g |
| Cholesterol | 20 mg |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Preparation Time
| Task | Time (minutes) |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 60 |
| Cook Time | 25 |
| Total Time | 85 |
Servings
This recipe serves 4 people, making it perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends.
Instructions
To embark on this culinary adventure, begin by preparing your whole wheat pizza dough using your favorite recipe. This dough serves as the foundation for our flavorful toppings and will provide a hearty and nutritious base.
Next, let’s create the vibrant basil pesto that will elevate our pizza to new heights. Gather your walnuts, garlic, basil leaves, salt, and coarsely pounded black peppercorns. Place these ingredients into a food processor and pulse them together until they form a coarse mixture. As you blend, slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil through the feed tube, continuing to process until the mixture transforms into a smooth, lush pesto. Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese and give it one last whirl to incorporate, then set this flavorful concoction aside.
Now, it’s time to sauté the mushrooms. Heat a saucepan over medium heat and add a splash of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the sliced button mushrooms and sauté them until they soften and release their moisture, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking. This should take about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove them from heat and set aside.
With your pesto and mushrooms ready, it’s time to shape the pizza. Take your prepared pizza dough and roll it out on a floured surface using a rolling pin. You can choose to roll it thin for a crispy crust or leave it thicker if you prefer a chewier bite. Once rolled out, sprinkle some flour onto your baking pan to prevent sticking. Gently lift the dough with both hands and transfer it onto the pan, ensuring it fits nicely.
Spread the luscious basil pesto evenly over the dough, creating a vibrant green canvas. Next, add your sautéed mushrooms and sliced red bell pepper, distributing them evenly across the surface. Finally, sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the top, allowing it to melt and create a gooey layer as it bakes.
Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C) and place the pizza in the oven. Bake for approximately 25 minutes, or until the crust turns a lovely golden brown and the cheese bubbles invitingly.
Once out of the oven, let the pizza cool for a few moments before slicing into it. Serve your Pesto Pizza with Mushroom and Bell Pepper alongside a warm Cream of Celery Soup for a comforting meal. To conclude your dining experience on a sweet note, why not indulge in a slice of Summer Fruit Tart as a delightful dessert?
This Pesto Pizza is not just a dish; it’s an invitation to share love and laughter around the table, bringing everyone together to enjoy a taste of Italy in the comfort of your home. Enjoy!
